Bullied and Dumped, But She Won in the End (Adriana) novel Chapter 68

**Chapter 68: Meeting Cynthia**

“This bracelet is merely a token for the Lincolns’ daughter-in-law. It holds no real significance. Don’t let it fool you into thinking you hold a special place in Curtis’s heart.”

Danielle’s words struck like a hammer, obliterating the fragile glimmer of hope and fantasy that Adriana had been clinging to.

I should have known better. I’ve been too naïve, too eager to dream.

“When Curtis was just 18, he was ready to sever all ties with his family for Cynthia. And by the time he turned 20, he was willing to lay down his life for her,” Danielle continued, her voice laced with bitterness as she leaned back in her seat, her gaze drifting out the window as if searching for answers in the passing scenery. “Can you even fathom how jealous that makes me?”

Adriana remained silent, a knot of discomfort tightening in her chest for reasons she couldn’t quite articulate.

That year, the feud between Curtis and Harold sent shockwaves through Harborton, rippling outwards to the entire business world. The Lincolns were a family of immense stature, and their every move was scrutinized by countless eyes. Any minor incident became fodder for international headlines, a spectacle for the masses.

When Curtis had a falling out with the Lincolns at the tender age of 18 over Cynthia, Adriana was merely 12, still reeling from the heart-wrenching reality that her adoptive parents had returned her to the orphanage, leaving her to grapple with feelings of abandonment.

“Adriana, you must understand—no one will ever truly plant roots in Curtis’s heart. It’s completely reserved for Cynthia,” Danielle warned, her tone sharp and protective, as if she were trying to shield Adriana from a dangerous truth.

“Are you implying that I have feelings for Curtis? That I’m upset because someone else occupies his heart?” Adriana countered, her voice steady but laced with defiance. “You know I’m only working with Curtis. There’s nothing beyond that. So why are you burdening me with this? Are you trying to humiliate yourself?”

Danielle’s frown deepened for a fleeting moment before she burst into laughter, the tension dissipating. “Natasha said you appear all sweet and innocent, but you have quite the bite. I didn’t believe it—until now. You really do have a sharp tongue.”

“Too kind of you,” Adriana replied quietly, her gaze fixed on the world outside the window, lost in thought.

“I’m sharing this because I genuinely don’t want you to fall for him. I understand Curtis’s charm better than anyone…” Danielle’s voice softened, but her words felt like a dagger, piercing through Adriana’s heart.

Of course, someone as remarkable as Curtis—spend enough time with him, and anyone could easily find themselves enchanted.

The car rolled to a stop at the entrance of the rehab hospital, the atmosphere thick with anticipation and uncertainty.

Adriana stepped out of the vehicle, following Danielle inside, her heart racing with trepidation.

“I’ve arranged for you to meet Cynthia today. She’s curious about you, and I thought it would be a good idea for you two to meet,” Danielle said, a smile gracing her lips as she led Adriana through the sterile corridors.

Adriana felt a frown crease her forehead, her mind racing with questions. Why would Cynthia want to see her?

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